I am going to do a side by side test. I'll use the octoberfest recipe that I posted here for zeno(I think Freon Steve tried it also) But I am going to do one batch with the German Gold, and one batch with Maris Otter as the base extracts. It might be interesting to see how the two compare. The Marris otter probably will have a lower FG

I am also experiencing a high FG. can not get below 1.02 with different yeast strains, varying fermentation conditions, etc. Could this be the grain? I use Briess two row as my base malt because I can get it for $25/50 lb bag at the local brewpub.

It shouldn't be your base unless you aren't able to fully convert your non fermentasbles to fermentables. Try som amylase enzyme in your next batch and see if that helps to drop it. What recipe are you having the high FG on is there a lot of carmel or dark malt in it. That should be more closer to the reason behind the high FG

my last three batches and come to think of it most of my dark beers end up higher than target. Brewing a celebration ale and bitter this weekend. Will know for sure if it the dark malts. If it is would I be wise to back off on the crystal malts in my dark beers?